Cost of Living in Hempstead County, Arkansas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Hempstead County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Hempstead County ranks #2,272 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 28%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Hempstead County, Arkansas
Hempstead County renters feel moderate national pressure
At 19.7%, Hempstead County's rent-to-income ratio edges slightly above the national comfort threshold, meaning renters here carry marginally heavier housing burdens than the typical U.S. household. The median household income of $47,654 lags significantly behind the national average of $74,755, while median rent of $781 per month runs just $19 below Arkansas's state average.
Hempstead ranks above average on housing burden
With a rent-to-income ratio of 19.7%, Hempstead County exceeds Arkansas's state average of 18.1%, placing it among the higher-burden counties statewide. This gap reflects lower median income relative to rental costs in the region.
Hempstead's rents sit amid a range of regional options
Hempstead's median rent of $781 positions it in the middle range of this county cluster, below Garland ($942) and Greene ($852) but above Hot Spring ($763). Home values ($100,200) rank among the lowest in the region, offering affordability for buyers willing to accept higher rental burdens.
Renters shoulder more of Hempstead's income
With a median household income of just $47,654, renters in Hempstead County dedicate 19.7% of earnings—$781 per month—to rent, a notably higher share than stronger-income counties. Homeowners fare better with $534 monthly payments on $100,200 properties, making ownership more accessible than renting.
Hempstead appeals to homebuyers more than renters
If you're a renter, Hempstead County's 19.7% rent-to-income ratio suggests tighter budgets; if you're a homebuyer, low home values ($100,200) and modest ownership costs ($534/month) present real opportunity. Compare these tradeoffs against other Arkansas counties to find the best fit for your situation.
Cost of Living Advisory: Hempstead County
Affordability Verdict
Hempstead County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $781/month representing approximately 19.7% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 30.0%.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Hempstead County is $781/month, while owner costs run $534/month. Owning saves approximately $247/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $31,240/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $22,886/year. With a median household income of $47,654, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 30.0% of renter households in Hempstead County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Arkansas, Hempstead County is more affordable than Madison County by roughly 7% ($781/mo vs $727/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Hempstead County
Rent Burden
19.7%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,112
per month
Owner Cost Burden
13.4%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Hempstead County
Median home value is $100,200. Estimated monthly cost: $800 vs. your max of $1,112.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
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Based on the 30% rule for rent and 28% rule for housing costs (mortgage + owner costs). Mortgage estimate assumes 20% down, 7.2% interest, 30-year fixed.
Frequently Asked Questions
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See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
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